Is music haram in Islam? This is one of the most frequently asked and controversial questions among Muslims today. As music becomes increasingly embedded in daily life, through entertainment, social media, education, and even relaxation, Muslims around the world are seeking clarity on whether listening to or producing music aligns with Islamic teachings.
Islamic scholars and jurists have discussed this matter for centuries, drawing from the Qur’an, authentic Hadiths, and the principles of Shariah. Some argue that all music is impermissible, while others allow certain types, especially when free from haram elements such as indecent lyrics, instruments, or distractions from religious obligations.
In this article, we explore the evidence, context, and varying scholarly interpretations related to music in Islam. Whether you are a practicing Muslim looking for guidance or a student of Islamic knowledge, this comprehensive analysis will help you understand the Islamic ruling on music, its spiritual implications, and what is considered halal or haram in this domain.
What Does the Qur’an Say About Music?
While the Qur’an does not explicitly mention the word “music” (in Arabic: موسيقى), there are verses that scholars have interpreted as alluding to musical practices.
وَمِنَ ٱلنَّاسِ مَن يَشْتَرِى لَهْوَ ٱلْحَدِيثِ لِيُضِلَّ عَن سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ بِغَيْرِ عِلْمٍۢ وَيَتَّخِذَهَا هُزُوًا ۚ أُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ لَهُمْ عَذَابٌۭ مُّهِينٌۭ
Transliteration:
“Wa min an-naasi man yashtaree lahwa al-hadeethi liyudilla ‘an sabeelillahi bighayri ‘ilmin wa yattakhithaha huzuwan; ulaaa’ika lahum ‘azaabum muheen”
Translation:
“And of mankind is he who purchases idle talk to mislead (men) from the path of Allah without knowledge, and takes it (the path of Allah or the Verses of the Qur’an) by way of mockery. For such there will be a humiliating torment.” (Qur’an 31:6)
This verse from Surah Luqman (31:6) has been cited by many classical scholars as a warning against distractions that divert one from the path of Allah, including music, singing, and frivolous speech. The term “lahw al-hadith” (idle talk) is interpreted by scholars like Ibn Kathir and Ibn Taymiyyah as referring to music that leads to heedlessness. It emphasizes that using such entertainment to mock or neglect divine guidance results in a humiliating punishment. This verse is often central in discussions on the Islamic ruling regarding music.
What Do the Hadiths Say About Music?
Numerous hadiths from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) address music and musical instruments. Hadith in Sahih al-Bukhari:
لَيَكُونَنَّ مِنْ أُمَّتِي أَقْوَامٌ يَسْتَحِلُّونَ الْحِرَ وَالْحَرِيرَ وَالْخَمْرَ وَالْمَعَازِفَ
Transliteration:
Layaakoonanna min ummati aqwaamun yastahilloona al-hira wal-hareera wal-khamra wal-ma‘aazif.
Translation:
“There will be among my followers people who will consider as permissible illegal sexual intercourse, the wearing of silk (for men), the drinking of alcoholic drinks, and the use of musical instruments.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 5590)
This hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari (5590) serves as a prophetic warning about people from the Ummah who will normalize and legalize acts that are clearly prohibited in Islam, such as zina (fornication), silk for men, alcohol, and notably, musical instruments (ma‘aazif). The fact that music is mentioned alongside major sins shows the severity of its prohibition in traditional Islamic teachings. Scholars have used this hadith as strong evidence that the use of musical instruments is haram and not to be taken lightly.
Opinions of Islamic Scholars
Islamic scholars across the four major madhhabs generally agree that music involving instruments and immoral content is haram, based on Qur’anic verses and authentic hadiths. However, some scholars permit vocals or nasheeds without instruments, provided they promote good values and do not distract from religious obligations. The ruling ultimately depends on the content, context, and effect of the music on one’s faith and behavior.
Majority Opinion:
The majority of scholars from the four major madhhabs (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali) have traditionally held that music is haram when it involves:
- Instruments
- Obscene or immoral lyrics
- Distraction from religious duties
Exceptions:
Some scholars, particularly in the Hanafi and Maliki schools, allow:
- Vocals without instruments
- Music used for permissible purposes (like nasheeds without instruments)
- Music that does not incite haram or distract from obligations
Contemporary Fatwas and Rulings
Many modern scholars and fatwa councils reiterate the prohibition of music that:
- Contains immoral content
- Promotes indecency
- Leads to neglect of prayer and remembrance of Allah
Examples:
- Dar al-Ifta al-Misriyyah: Permits nasheeds without instruments.
- Islam Q&A (Shaykh Salih al-Munajjid): Declares all music haram except duff (frame drum) in specific contexts like weddings.
Permissible (Halal) Music in Islam
In Islam, permissible (halal) music includes forms that are free from instruments, promote Islamic values, and do not lead to sinful behavior. Examples include nasheeds, Qur’anic recitation with melody, and the duff (frame drum) during weddings or Eid, especially for women. The key condition is that the music should not distract from worship or encourage indecency. Islam permits certain forms of music under strict guidelines:
Allowed:
- Nasheeds with good messages
- Use of duff by women during Eid or weddings
- Vocals praising Allah or His Messenger (PBUH)
Prohibited:
- Music with instruments (majority opinion)
- Lyrics promoting lust, violence, or disbelief
- Concerts that involve free mixing or immoral behavior
The Role of the Duff in Islam
The duff (a simple frame drum without bells or metallic jingles) holds a special place in Islamic tradition and is one of the few instruments that is explicitly permitted in authentic hadiths. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ allowed its use on specific occasions, particularly during weddings, Eid celebrations, and gatherings involving female companions.
Hadith Evidence:
عَنْ عَائِشَةَ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهَا، قَالَتْ: دَخَلَ عَلَيَّ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ﷺ وَعِندِي جَارِيَتَانِ تُغَنِّيَانِ بِغِنَاءِ بُعَاثَ، فَاضْطَجَعَ عَلَى الْفِرَاشِ وَحَوَّلَ وَجْهَهُ، وَدَخَلَ أَبُو بَكْرٍ فَانْتَهَرَنِي، وَقَالَ: مِزْمَارُ الشَّيْطَانِ فِي بَيْتِ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ ﷺ؟ فَأَقْبَلَ عَلَيْهِ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ﷺ، فَقَالَ: دَعْهُمَا
Translation:
Aisha (RA) said: “Allah’s Messenger ﷺ came to me when two young girls were singing beside me the songs of Bu‘ath. The Prophet ﷺ lay down and turned his face to the other side. Then Abu Bakr (RA) came in and scolded me, saying, ‘Musical instruments of the devil in the house of Allah’s Messenger ﷺ?’ The Messenger of Allah ﷺ turned towards him and said, ‘Leave them.’” — (Sahih al-Bukhari, 952)
This hadith shows that the duff is permissible, especially for women, during festive occasions as long as the content remains pure and within Islamic boundaries. However, scholars agree that other musical instruments remain prohibited, and even the duff should not be misused or become a source of vain entertainment.
Why Is Music Considered Harmful in Islam?
Music is considered harmful in Islam because it can lead to heedlessness (ghaflah), diverting the heart from the remembrance of Allah. It often promotes immoral themes, such as lust, arrogance, and disobedience, which negatively impact spiritual and social well-being. Scholars also highlight its potential to create emotional instability, waste time, and weaken one’s connection to faith. Therefore, it is discouraged or prohibited to protect the believer’s heart and soul.
Spiritual Impact:
Music can distance the heart from the remembrance of Allah, leading to heedlessness, weakened Iman (faith), and a reduced desire for worship and spiritual growth.
- Distracts from the remembrance of Allah
- Influences heart towards heedlessness (ghaflah)
Social Impact:
Music that promotes indecency, free mixing, or immoral behavior can contribute to the erosion of Islamic values, encouraging permissiveness and weakening the moral fabric of society.
- Encourages moral corruption
- Promotes indecency and lewd behavior
Psychological Impact:
Music can influence emotions, often triggering feelings of sadness, anger, or desire, and in some cases, it may contribute to anxiety, addiction, or detachment from reality when consumed excessively.
- Triggers emotional instability
- Can promote depression, anger, or rebellion
Conclusion
So, is music haram in Islam? The majority opinion among classical and contemporary scholars is yes, especially when it involves instruments or promotes sinful behavior. However, some permissible forms like nasheeds and vocals exist under strict Islamic guidelines. As Muslims, we are encouraged to protect our hearts and minds from content that diverts us from Allah’s path. Always seek guidance from scholars and make choices that bring you closer to Allah, not further.
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